Johnston returns to old position a new man

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South Sydney Rabbitohs top try scorer for 2017 Alex Johnston believes he returns to his old position as a totally different winger.

Johnston, who play the majority of his season at fullback in 2017 in the absence of Greg Inglis, went on to have his highest scoring season yet, getting 22 tries for the season.

After recording 11 tries in 2016, the versatile back is convinced that learning new skills across a number of key roles is one of the main reasons behind his giant strides of last year.

“I can say it’s definitely made me a better footballer, getting experience in different positions,” said Johnston.

“By the end of the season I was just enjoying my footy. Hopefully this year with Greg back I can go back on the wing and score a few more tries.”

Approaching his fifth season in the NRL, Johnston has fallen into the senior category at the Rabbitohs despite only being 22 years-old. He has been impressed with some of the new guys coming through the ranks.

“The coaches had me in a few of the senior groups,” Johnston said. “I don’t really feel that old, I’m only 22 still, but mixing with the young boys I do feel that little bit older.

“There’s a lot of new guys, I really like Mawene (Hiroti), in the gym he’s a real freak and he’s real fit, he puts me through my paces that’s for sure.”

Taking all he has learned, Johnston is looking to push his game to the next level in 2018 and is targeting a return to rep football.

“I’d definitely like to get a spot in one of the rep teams again and work towards improving my game,” he added. “But right now I’m just enjoying myself in training and tearing in with all the boys.

“Training is tough but it’s what we love to do so we can’t wait for the new season.”